Blistered lips Newborn 2023 – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

In this blog, we delve into the topic of blistered lips Newborn, exploring the causes, symptoms, and available treatment options. Newborns are delicate, and any signs of discomfort can be a cause for concern for parents and caregivers. Understanding the potential reasons behind blistered lips, recognizing the symptoms early on, and knowing how to address them can be invaluable in ensuring the well-being and comfort of the newest members of our families. Join us as we uncover the essential information needed to navigate this common yet often distressing issue in newborns.

What are Blistered Lips?

A lip blister, similar to blisters elsewhere on the body, is a raised bump on the skin filled with fluid. It can be tender and painful when pressed or broken open. Sometimes it appears as a single blister in the center of the lips, while other times it resembles two sets of lips, forming on both the top and bottom lips. Baby lip blisters appear as small bubbles on your baby’s lip skin and may not be noticeable when the lips are closed.

Causes of Blistered Lips Newborn

Breastfeeding

Lip blisters caused by sucking can be referred to as suck blisters, friction blisters, or suck callouses. Newborns have tender, soft lips. When breastfeeding, babies suck vigorously, putting strain on their lip muscles, leading to friction and potential lip blister formation. While lip blisters are commonly observed in breastfeeding babies, they can also occur in bottle-fed infants.

Cold Sores

According to a study conducted by multiple institutions, the estimated incidence rate of neonatal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection ranges from one in 3000 to one in 20,000 live births. Cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus can result in blisters on a baby’s lips. These blisters, unlike sucking blisters, may be painful and contain pus. Babies under eight weeks old are at risk of developing them because their immune system is not fully developed.

Adults with the virus can transmit it to the baby through contact with the baby’s lips, kissing, or sharing a pacifier after having it in their mouth. Babies may also experience a fever during their first cold sore outbreak, and the mouth area could become inflamed, leading to bad breath.

Allergic Reactions

Your baby might have an allergic reaction to ingredients in lotions, creams, or lip balm applied to or near the lips. Introducing new foods could trigger blisters if your baby has a food allergy. Impetigo, an infection caused by Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria, can also lead to lip and mouth blisters. These blisters may burst, leak fluid, and form a crust, or they can appear as larger, clear, fluid-filled blisters that remain intact.

Symptoms of Blistered Lips Newborn

Blistered lips on newborns can be a cause for concern and should be promptly addressed. There are some signs of blistered lips in newborns.

• Red or Swollen Lips: If your newborn’s lips appear redder or more swollen than usual, it could indicate the presence of blisters.
• Fluid-filled Blisters: Look for small, fluid-filled bumps on your baby’s lips. These blisters may appear clear or slightly yellowish.
• Irritability: A baby with blistered lips may become fussy or irritable, as the blisters can be uncomfortable and painful.
• Difficulty Feeding: Blisters on the lips may make it challenging for your newborn to latch onto the breast or bottle. They may fuss during feeding or have difficulty sucking.
• Cracking or Peeling Skin: Keep an eye out for any cracking or peeling skin on your baby’s lips, as this can also be a sign of blister formation.
• Excessive Saliva or Drooling: Blisters on the lips can sometimes lead to increased saliva production and drooling in newborns.
• Avoiding Sucking: Babies typically have a strong sucking reflex, but if they avoid sucking altogether or appear to be in discomfort while doing so, it could be due to blistered lips.
• Crying During Lip Contact: If your baby cries or shows distress when you touch their lips, this may be an indication of pain or discomfort caused by blisters.

Treatment and Medication for Blistered Lips Newborn

When your baby has impetigo, your pediatrician will prescribe antibiotic cream to treat the infection. If the infection extends around the mouth, the doctor may recommend using a bandage to prevent the spread of bacteria. Thrush can be addressed with antifungal medicine applied directly to your baby’s tongue and lips. If you breastfeed your baby and experience sore and red nipples, you both may have thrush.

To prevent the infection from recurring between you and your baby, you should also apply the medicine to your nipples. If your baby is old enough, you can introduce probiotic yogurt into their diet. Additionally, sterilizing sooths, teething toys, and bottles may be necessary.

What to do If your baby faces Blistered Lips due to Sucking?

If blisters on newborn lips arise from sucking, monitor them for three to four days. If they persist or reappear, address the latching issue by following these steps:

• Gently rub your nipple against your baby’s lips to encourage them to open their mouth wide.
• Position the nipple slightly above your baby’s upper lip while ensuring their chin is tucked towards their chest.
• Guide your baby’s lower lip away from the base of your nipple, leading them to the breast with their chin taking the lead, and then facilitate them to latch on.
• A good latch is characterized by an extended tongue and your baby’s mouth effectively filled with your breast, with their lower lip turned outward.
• If your bottle-fed baby develops suck blisters, assess your feeding position. Ensure the bottle nipple goes entirely into your baby’s mouth or consider using a paced feeding bottle until your baby adapts to comfortable latching.

Conclusion

In conclusion, newborn lip blistered can be a cause for concern, but early recognition of the symptoms and prompt medical attention can help in addressing the issue effectively. By staying informed and seeking timely care, parents can ensure their newborns are comfortable and healthy, setting them on the path to a happy and thriving infancy.